Massachusetts IDEA Child Find Project

The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) affirmed today that dyslexia, a reading disability, is entirely unrelated to a person's intelligence or cognitive potential. Dyslexic individuals possess the capacity to think, lead, and achieve at the highest levels, and countless have gone on to accomplish extraordinary achievements across every field.

IDA stands firmly in support of dyslexic learners by advancing evidence-based reading instruction grounded in the science of reading, while also championing the unique strengths, resilience, and potential that define this community.

Progress is not the standard for SLD eligibility, sufficient progress is.

Under IDEA, the question is whether the student is making enough progress to reach grade-level standards (34 C.F.R. § 300.309).

A child can show growth and still:
❌ not close the gap
❌ not be on track for grade level

That’s insufficient progress.
This is why AIM lines matter.

They show:
📍 where the student is
🎯 where they need to be
📈 whether the current rate will get them there

If the trajectory doesn’t lead to grade level in a reasonable time, the progress is not sufficient, and that’s an eligibility conversation.

So when you hear,
“they’re making progress,”
ask:
“is it enough to close the gap?”

Because growth alone isn’t the standard.

REMINDER! Our Zoom Info Sessions for Stars School and Learning Center are coming up on Monday, 12/15 at 11:30am and 6pm. Learn how we support students with language-based learning differences and get your questions answered—register today! https://bit.ly/4qAQMuD